Trees

Trees form a valuable part to the rural and urban landscapes throughout the Shire.
These range from remnant native vegetation, planted windbreaks, revegetation areas for erosion control and ground water management to ornamental plantings, gardens and public parks. The trees and vegetation considered to be significant need to be preserved to protect the amenity and landscape values of the locality.

PART C; 22 of the Coolamon Shire Council Development Control Plan 2015 (Amended April 2025) sets out how trees and vegetation must be preserved and managed within the Coolamon Shire Local Government Area, including on private land.

When is a Permit Required?

Permission for tree removal is required in the following prescribed areas for:

  • Trees located on public land between a property boundary and a public road.

  • Trees at a site identified as a Heritage Item or in a Heritage Conservation Area

  • Native vegetation & Tree’s that exceed 3 meters in height

  • Trees or vegetation located within a ‘Sensitive Area’ on the Natural Resources Biodiversity Map

Exemptions

Council consent is not required if:

  • The tree is dead or you are removing dead branches

  • The species is declared noxious under the Noxious Weeds Act 1993

  • The land is excluded from the Native Vegetation Act 2003

  • Clearing is already authorised by a valid development consent or other legislation

How to Apply

Step 1 – Prepare a Site Plan

Prepare a Site Plan showing all vegetation on your property and clearly mark the trees or plants proposed for removal.

Step 2 – Submit an Application

Complete the Application to Clear Vegetation (Trees) form:

Supporting documents may include:

  • Recent photos
  • Distance of the tree from the dwelling
  • Arborist Structural Engineer reports
  • Preliminary biodiversity assessment (if required)
Step 3 – Council Assessment

When assessing a Vegetation Removal Permit, Council considers:

  • Purpose of the tree removal
  • Contribution to the heritage values of a Heritage Item or Heritage Conservation Area
  • Any proposed replacement planting
  • Potential value of the tree as habitat for native fauna
  • The health of the tree
  • Potential risk to human life or property
  • Outcome of any required biodiversity assessment
    (required for removal of any native tree 3 m or greater in height)
Step 4 – Outcome

Council will assess your application and advise you of any additional requirements or provide a decision.

About Required Reports

Arborist Structural Engineer Reports
Assess the health, structure, and potential risk of a tree.
These reports may be needed for development applications, tree management, or legal matters.

Preliminary Biodiversity Assessment
Provides an initial evaluation of a site’s biological values and potential development impacts.
It includes identifying vegetation, threatened species, and habitats through desktop reviews and field surveys.
This assessment helps inform planning decisions and suggests mitigation measures before any detailed studies are undertaken.

 Neighboring Trees

You may prune a neighbour’s tree that overhangs your property back to the boundary.

Council does not mediate neighbour disputes.
For assistance, contact the Community Justice Centre.

Trees near Power Lines

If a tree is touching or near electrical service wires within your property, contact Essential Energy on 13 20 80.

Need help?

Phone 02 6930 1800
Email eplanning@coolamon.nsw.gov.au